Omicron: The 8 symptoms to look out for and when you’ll get them

Research has identified eight warning signs of the new variant of the coronavirus and when they start to show. These symptoms are more than the official three listed by the NHS.

Additional Symptoms

As Omicron continues to spread fast across the UK, leading to record numbers in a space of one month, experts have identified some eight symptoms to look out for.

Although symptoms of Omicron have proven to be milder than previous variants, people can still become very ill or die from it, especially the unvaccinated.

The NHS originally listed prolonged cough, fever and a loss of taste and smell. But not everyone who tested positive for the new variant experienced these symptoms.

Many have told of the symptoms being similar to those of a common cold, with a scratchy throat and runny nose.

Signs & Incubation Period

These are the common symptoms that people with Omicron are having, but experts have identified others that may not be as common as these.

According to data from the UK, US and South Africa, the eight signs that point to a likely case of the variant are:

• Scratchy throat
• Lower back pain
• Runny nose/congestion
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sneezing
• Night sweats
• Body aches

Experts have also cautioned that these warning signs are most likely to come on in the early stages of the illness, with symptoms appearing as early as two days after coming into contact with someone who has the virus.

In some cases, symptoms can take longer to appear, even up to 14 days after exposure. It is why it is recommended that one continues to self-isolate for ten days and test regularly after exposure.